Saint Joseph's Abbey is a Trappist monastery in Spencer. It was founded in 1950 by monks from Nova Scotia and Rhode Island. The monks live a contemplative life of prayer and work, following the Rule of Saint Benedict. They produce jams and beer that are sold to support the monastery. The abbey is also known for its retreat house, where guests can join the monks for the Liturgy of the Hours and Mass, and listen to conferences given by one of the monks. The abbey is open to the public for certain hours, but some areas are reserved for the monastic enclosure.